Kōchi Prefecture, Administrative prefecture on Shikoku island, Japan
Description
This prefecture lies on the southern edge of Shikoku island, facing the Pacific Ocean with forested mountains inland. The terrain consists mostly of steep slopes and narrow river valleys that open toward the coast.
History
The region was known as Tosa until reforms during the Meiji era. The modern administrative structure emerged after the dissolution of the feudal system.
Culture
The prefecture takes its name from the capital, where whitewashed riverside warehouses and street markets sell catches brought in by local fishermen. Residents keep the connection to the ocean alive by preparing bonito tataki, grilling the fish over straw flames.
Practical
The climate brings mild winters and frequent rainfall, especially during summer months. Travel usually involves arriving through Kōchi city or smaller ports along the coast.
Did you know?
One river crosses the prefecture without dams or large barriers, which has become rare in Japan. The riverbed changes with the seasons, showing sandbars in summer that disappear in winter.
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Matsuyama Castle
77.7 km
Sawada Mansion
3 km
Kōchi Castle
193 m
Kazura bridge at the Iya Valley
45.1 km
Uwajima Castle
97.4 km
Harimayabashi Bridge
1.1 km
Dōgo Onsen Honkan
76.3 km
Shimonada Station
87.9 km
Shikoku Karst
53.9 km
Sameura Dam
22.1 km
Ōzu Castle
92 km
Cape Muroto
69.6 km
Botchan Stadium
77.7 km
Katsurahama
8.1 km
Ishite-ji
75.2 km
Nagoro
56.1 km
Iya Valley
45.1 km
Yuzuki Castle
76 km
Ryūga Cave
20.5 km
Okō Castle
9.4 km
Ningineer Stadium
71.8 km
Tosa Shrine
5.6 km
Yanase Takashi Memorial Hall
25.4 km
Chikurin-ji
4.5 km
Tairyū-ji
98.6 km
Tobe Zoological Park
72 km
伊豫豆比古命神社
75.7 km
Mikurodo
69.4 km
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